How to Re-install Older Version of Apps on the iPhone & iPad

The latest versions of iOS allow you to re-install an older version of apps on iPhone or iPad with ease. If an app no longer supports the iOS version running on your iPhone, follow these quick steps to download the app and continue to use it without any issue.

One of your favorite apps was recently updated with all new features. Unfortunately, it no longer supports the iOS version running on your device. How would you re-install the older version of the app on your iPhone or iPad?

Unlike before, installing an older version of an iOS app is pretty simple. Albeit the process is slightly under the wraps. Hence, not too many folks would be aware of this important feature. Let me show you how it works!

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How to Re-install Older Version of iPhone or iPad Apps

Note: This simple trick will work with only those apps that were once compatible with the iOS version running on your device. For instance, Facebook had the support of iOS 7. Hence, you can download the app even if it doesn’t support that iOS version.

Step #1. Launch App Store on your iOS device.

Step #2. Now, search the app you wish to re-install.

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Step #3. Once you have found the app, go ahead and install it as usual.

Step #4. Now, you will get a popup that would read something like, “Facebook requires iOS 8, or later You can still download the older version of the app.”

You need to tap on Download the prompt to confirm. Then, let the download process be completed. Once it’s done, launch the app, sign in to it and start using it just like before.

What if the new version of the app is compatible with your device but, you still want to use the older version?

In iTunes, click on the “Apps” link from the sidebar. This shows the apps that are available in the last backup. (or basically, all apps that you installed and synced).

Find the app whose older version you want to install and drag-n-drop it on the iPhone section in the sidebar. (The device section).

Now, all you do is simply Sync your iPhone with iTunes.

What if I don’t have a backup?

You can ask any of your friends who *might* have a backup of the app in its older version. Obviously, you cannot sync your iPhone/iPad on their computer so you can simply copy the app. To do this (on your friend’s computer):

Click on “Apps” section in iTunes

Find the app and right-click → Show in Windows Explorer

You’ll find the .ipa file. Copy this to your system.

Once done, you just have to drag-n-drop this .ipa file on your device in iTunes.

That’s it!

Your take:

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So, that’s how you can continue to use any app even if its current version isn’t compatible with your device. As a user, I really appreciate this feature. What’s your take on it? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.

Dhvanesh Adhiya is the founder and editor-in-chief who takes care of audio, visual, and textual contents uploaded on iGeeksBlog.com. He is passionate about wonderful apps that change the way your iPhone interacts in your life.